Finding Your Way to Residency in Eastern Europe

Imagining a move abroad can feel overwhelming in so many ways. A long distance move is already stressful without considering if a country will even let you stay - that's daunting. But in Eastern Europe especially, there are multiple ways to build legal residency. Unlike Western Europe's high income requirements, skilled job requirements, or other deterring factors, Eastern Europe's requirements are often more reasonable and realistic for the average American.

Here are some of the most common pathways people take, with examples of where they exist:

1. Family Connections

If you have ancestry in certain Eastern European countries, you may qualify for citizenship or residency by descent.

• Poland, Hungary, and Romania all offer ancestry-based citizenship programs. For some, a grandparent’s birth certificate is enough to open the door.

• Other countries provide family reunification visas for spouses or close relatives already living there.

2. Work & Economic Activity

Many countries offer residency if you can prove you’re self-employed, freelancing, or starting a business.

• Romania has a pathway for “independent professional activity.” Of note - this path is uniquely available to U.S. citizens without obtaining a visa, making this move not only practically realistic but also expedient.

• Bulgaria and Czechia offer long-term visas for self-employment or company formation.

• Traditional work permits tied to an employer are also available throughout the region, although wages are low compared to the U.S.

3. Property Ownership & Financial Means

In some countries, property ownership or demonstrating stable income can support your residency application.

• Bulgaria allows residency through property purchase and proof of financial stability.

• Hungary recently reintroduced a “golden visa” option through investment.

• Several countries consider property ownership alongside proof of income as part of a strong application.

4. Student Pathways

Universities across Eastern Europe welcome international students, often at a fraction of the cost of Western Europe.

• Poland, Czechia, Hungary, and Romania all issue residence permits tied to enrollment.

• For many, this becomes a gateway to work opportunities or longer-term options.

5. Retirement & Passive Income

If you draw a pension, annuity, or regular income from abroad, some countries make it easier to settle.

• Bulgaria and Romania both offer residency permits for retirees who can prove steady income (although these are not technically labeled as retirement visas).

• Other countries allow temporary stays that can be renewed year by year for those with passive income. (Think Albania and Georgia.)

Why This Matters

Residency is intimidating - that's just a fact. Being an immigrant is intimidating. There are so many unknowns and "firsts." That's what makes this a journey many are unwilling to take. But information and facts help easy that intimidation. When options become visible, courage grows. And Eastern Europe not only holds residency options - it hold beauty, history, culture - MAGIC! It's sitting here waiting for you.

No matter your situation, there is usually more than one path to explore. It means you have choices, and with the right preparation, you can find the one that fits you.

The HearthFinder Connection

Part of tending your hearth is facing uncomfortable challenges with courage - when they stand in the way of your dreams. Eastern Europe offers so many amazing gifts, both practical and abstract (more on that in another post). Residency is possible and achievable. If you are committed to turning over every stone to find your pathway, you will find it.

If you’ve been dreaming of life abroad, don’t assume the door is closed. More often than not, there are several doors waiting for you to knock.